Weekend forecast for Long Island calls for high temps, possible storms, unhealthy air

A cold front sweeping across Long Island could bring “isolated to scattered thunderstorms” on Saturday afternoon and evening until midnight, according to Matthew Wunsch, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Upton.

The storms could be heavy in some areas, with “strong, gusty winds” above 50 mph, Wunsch said Saturday morning.

Sunday should turn sunny, and hot, with a high around 86. Monday will be significantly cooler, with a high in the upper 70s.

An air quality health advisory is in place Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. for the region, including New York City, because levels of ozone, a key ingredient in smog, are expected to meet or exceed an air quality index value of 100. Levels above 100 can lead to health impacts for sensitive groups, especially people with cardiovascular or respiratory disease, young children and the elderly, or people who exercise or work outdoors.

Rip current risk is high for Saturday on the Island, the National Weather Service warned. High risk means that life-threatening rip currents are likely for anyone entering the surf.

After daytime temperatures in the 80s and 90s, a cold front will approach the area late Saturday, lowering temperatures but raising the risk of thunderstorms, some of which could be severe, generating hail and wind gusts of 58 mph or more. “Many people might not see these damaging winds," but Long Islanders should monitor forecasts throughout the day, said James Tomasini, a National Weather Service meteorologist.

Tomasini said he did not expect the high weekend temperatures to be paired with high humidity, a combination that can be dangerous. But, he said, “If you’re outside, or if you’re somebody who’s more sensitive to heat, it’s important to stay cool throughout the day and drink lots of fluids."